The SchoolChoice process for ECE families will be much different than in previous years. Along with other Colorado school districts, DPS is working with the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) to continue expanding its Early Childhood Education program by rolling out a new enrollment process for Universal Pre-K (UPK).
Denver Public Schools offers preschool programs for 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds. Children must be 4-years-old on or before October 1 of the year of enrollment to be eligible. Children must be 3-years-old on or before October 1 of the year of enrollment to be eligible.
The philosophy of the Early Education Department is to create an integrated and comprehensive system of diverse, high quality early childhood education and care services. This system of services will enhance the development of young children so they succeed throughout their academic career; support families in their role as nurturers and first teachers; and meet the needs and financial abilities of Denver’s working parents.
The Early Childhood Education Program goals include:
Parent involvement is a critical component of Early Childhood Education. A child can get the most from her educational experience when teachers and parents work together to support the child as a team. Parents are encouraged to be active partners in the Early Childhood Education experience. Please see our tips for parents. Denver Public Schools provides a variety of parent involvement opportunities to meet the needs of families and to offer parents a broad spectrum of experiences in the educational environment. The program is designed to include:
Parent meetings are an important way to bring parents into their child’s education. Families and teachers come together to stimulate parental interactions and discuss parents’ roles in their child’s education.
